Bogus callers are praying on vulnerable adults claiming to be from the probation service and selling household goods.

Durham Tees Valley Probation Trust (DTVPT) has joined forces with Cleveland Police and Durham Constabulary to issue a warning to people about bogus callers.

There are fresh reports of scam artists preying on vulnerable residents in Seaton Carew and in the West End of Darlington where teams of tricksters have been reported.

They are knocking on doors and attempting to sell household goods such as tea towels, flannels, dishcloths and other items, often from a duffel bag.

Russell Bruce, Chief Executive of the DTVPT, said: “We want to make it completely clear to everyone that the Probation Service would never get involved in any such activity. We do not have people knocking on doors or cold-calling to sell anything to the public.”